Portugal's natural beauty, rich history, lively culture, and excellent wine make it a captivating destination, one to put on your bucket list. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, you will love exploring Portugal on an escorted small group tour. Here are the most popular places to visit in Portugal as part of a small group.
1. Azores
Located in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean and blessed with an idyllic landscape, the archipelago of Azores has earned the moniker, the Hawaii of Europe. Experience its beauty on a hiking tour with a limited number of fellow travellers with similar interests. Stay in Ponta Delgada, and hike trails amidst cliffs, lakes, lush forests, and hills. Explore Sete Cidades, a 22,000-year-old volcanic crater, and its blue and green lakes. Visit Lagoa das Furnas and Salto do Prego, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the island. As you hike, you can stop by small towns and tuck into local delicacies.
2. Lisbon
Lisbon, historic and hip in equal parts, is home to attractions such as the St. George's Castle, Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology (MAAT), and the National Tile Museum. Visit castles, palaces, and beaches in nearby Sintra, the romantic medieval town of Obidos, and the famous Joanna Library in Coimbra. Enjoy Viseu's famous cheeses and views of the magnificent Douro River. Sip delicious green wine at Aveleda Winery.
3. Porto
What was once a sleepy fishing village is today a bustling city, known for its picturesque riverside area, imposing civic buildings, and impressive monuments. Explore the historic town of Guimaraes, watch a traditional dance performance, and visit famous Port wine cellars.
Tip: Lisbon to Porto is a classic Portuguese vacation, covering the country's best attractions, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, beautiful wine regions, and spectacular Gothic and Romanesque architecture.
4. Madeira
Madeira may be best known for its namesake wine, but its tropical climate and rugged volcanic landscape are also its calling card, attracting hiking enthusiasts in particular. Experience the best of Madeira on a small, escorted tour. The trip starts in Santana and continues to the picturesque village of Porto da Cruz, where you can hike amidst a background of rugged coastline, towering cliffs, and lush greenery. Follow the man-made irrigation channels known as 'levadas' to explore breathtaking landscapes of mountains, waterfalls, and abysses. The tour ends in Funchal, Madeira's capital city.
5. Algarve
The beautiful Algarve Coast is home to seaside towns, stunning beaches, and fresh seafood. The three main towns visited on a small group tour of Algarve are Faro, Albufeira, and Portimao. Walk on the cobbled steps of Faro's Old Town to discover well-preserved 18th century architecture. Enjoy Albufeira's sandy beaches and its old town's whitewashed buildings, and in Portimao, find sublime beaches among cliffs.
Check out Goway's small group tours of Portugal, which can be tailored to your requirements. Travel with like-minded people and enjoy an intimate tour experience.
What do the experts say?
The Azores are a hidden gem. They are nine volcanic islands in the Atlantic with lush forests and endless trails
Self-driving is one of the best ways to explore Portugal. The country is compact, well-connected, and perfect for combining cities, coast, and countryside in one trip
Portugal’s charm lies in its mix of stunning coastline, rich cultural heritage, and beautiful cities
First-time visitors should explore Porto, Lisbon, and the Algarve. It’s the perfect introduction to Portugal
Portugal is one of Europe’s friendliest destinations. From B&B hosts to bus drivers, everyone greets you with warmth, even if you don’t speak the language
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